tea
noun
\ ˈtē
\
\
Definition of tea
1a
: a widely cultivated shrub (Camellia sinensis of the family Theaceae, the tea family) native to China, northern India, and southeastern Asia and having glossy green leaves and fragrant white flowers
b
: the leaves, leaf buds, and internodes of the tea plant prepared for use in beverages usually by immediate curing by heat or by such curing following a period of fermentation
Note: Tea may be classified according to its method of manufacture (see black tea, green tea, oolong, white tea) or according to the leaf size of the plant it is produced from (see orange pekoe, pekoe, souchong).
2
: an aromatic beverage prepared from tea leaves by soaking them in boiling water
3a
: any of various plants used like tea
also
: a drink prepared by soaking their parts (such as leaves or roots) and used medicinally or as a beverage
mint tea an herbal tea
b
: tea rose
4a
: refreshments usually including tea with sandwiches, crackers, or cookies served in late afternoon
b
: a reception, snack, or meal at which tea is served